Interpine Innovation Leads AI Detection for Woody Debris Assessment, Driving Top Honours for Tairāwhiti Cyclone Recovery Project. Our team recently deployed advanced AI detection systems to support a comprehensive assessment of large woody debris across the Tairāwhiti district.
This work formed a key component of a Gisborne District Council recovery project following Cyclone Gabrielle—an initiative that went on to win Project of the Year in its category at the Association of Local Government Information Management (ALGIM) Awards.
“Rather than relying solely on crews on the ground, the council’s recovery team used AI-assisted aerial mapping to scan river systems and identify debris hotspots.” The system detected logs over two metres long, mapped accumulation zones, and highlighted high-risk areas.
“This transparent, evidence-based approach allowed the council to prioritise the highest-risk areas first and direct funding where it would have the greatest impact. The result was more than $1 million in cost savings, faster and more targeted removal, and a reusable dataset to support future flood modelling, forestry planning, and river management.”
Recovery Manager Naomi Whitewood described the project as “a powerful example of technology backing up local knowledge”.
“Our communities have lived with the impacts of woody debris for years. We knew where the pressure points were, but we didn’t always have the data to match our lived experience,” Whitewood said.
“The AI mapping has changed that. It gives us a clear picture of where the biggest risks are, so we can act faster, justify our decisions, and make every recovery dollar work harder.”
This project demonstrates how innovation can enhance sustainability practices, providing local authorities and stakeholders with actionable insights to better manage natural resources. Interpine’s approach not only improves efficiency but also sets a benchmark for integrating AI into environmental monitoring at scale.
NEWS ARTCILE: ALGIM awards: Tairāwhiti cyclone recovery projects win top honours – NZ Herald
